Floyd Vivino – the legendary New Jersey comedian known to generations of fans as “Uncle Floyd” – has died at 74.
His brother, musician Jerry Vivino, shared the news on social media, writing, “Rest in peace big brother. You will be missed, but always remembered by friends, family and your loving fans.” He added that Vivino had been battling ongoing health issues for two and a half years.
Vivino had openly discussed serious health struggles in recent years, including a stroke in 2023, C0V1D 19, and cancer. Still, his love for performing never faded. “The worst part is not having any show to do,” he said in a 2024 interview.
Born in Paterson, New Jersey, in 1951, Vivino became a cult icon through his low-budget cable variety series, “The Uncle Floyd Show,” which ran from 1974 to 2001. His offbeat humor, music, and quirky characters earned him a fiercely loyal following across New Jersey and New York.
His influence reached far beyond local TV. Vivino appeared in Good Morning, Vietnam, popped up on shows like Law & Order, and was name-checked by artists including David Bowie and The Ramones. Bowie even told him he’d first heard of Uncle Floyd from John Lennon.
Vivino also became known for his playful state pride anthem, “Deep in the Heart of Jersey,” a parody that perfectly captured his affectionate, tongue-in-cheek humor.
“Uncle Floyd was like family,” Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh said, remembering him as one of the funniest people the city ever produced.
With his porkpie hat, piano, and endless charm, Uncle Floyd brought laughter to generations. His curtain may have closed, but his spirit – and his jokes – will live on.